Celtic Cross Tarot Spread
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This is a tricky one, and takes some practice to master as it requires interpreting ten cards and looking at the relationships between them. However it is also one of the most insightful spreads you can pull. There are many variations of the Celtic Cross spread, but here is one of the most accessible.
Set the mood. Choose a comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed. Light a candle, relax in nature or on your back patio, enjoy a cup of tea. Then place yourself in an open and relaxed state of mind. Consider a quick cleansing ritual before beginning.
Hold the deck between the palms and close your eyes. Breath deeply in and out of your nose and imagine a light at your heart gradually growing brighter and brighter. Visualize the light radiating out in all directions until you are surrounded, in the middle of a large, glowing sphere of white light.
Take your time as you draw each card, allowing the question to flow from you into the top of the deck before revealing the card.
Card 1 - What you are dealing with right now. Lay this card in the center of the cross.
Card 2 - Your biggest obstacle. This card is placed atop card 1.
Card 3 What led you here? Place this card below the first card to form the bottom of the cross.
Card 4 - How the situation will evolve, the future. This card is placed too the left of cards 1 and 2.
Card 5 - How you hope to conquer this issue. Place card 5 to the right of cards 1 and 2.
Card 6 - Subconsciously how you believe you will overcome the issue. This card is the top of the cross, above card 1.
Card 7 - The best possible way forward. To the right of your cross of cards, place this one in line with card 3.
Card 8 - Other factors to consider. Place just above card 7.
Card 9 - Hopes and fears around the issue. Place just above card 8.
Card 10 - The outcome. Place just above card 9.
As you look over the cards, spend some time examining cards #1 and #2 and the relationship between them. This is one of the most important aspects of the entire spread. Also note that the interpretation card #6 can be especially tricky when reading for yourself as it deals with the subconscious mind and may present totally new and sometimes uncomfortable information.
Advanced Tarot: An In-Depth Guide to Practical & Intuitive Tarot Reading by Paul Fenton-Smith
I love this book for other ideas of more complicated tarot spreads and readings. The illustrations are particularly helpful.
Featuring detailed card interpretations, reversed meanings, a variety of card layouts, tips for reading under pressure, and full-color illustrations, this comprehensive book is a one-stop resource for everyone from beginners to those who want to read professionally. Drawing on decades of experience, Paul Fenton-Smith presents a deep dive into the symbols and meanings of all 78 cards. Explore new ways to combine traditional interpretations with your intuitive impressions. Learn how to answer questions with confidence and accuracy. This must-have book also provides charts and correspondences as well as guidance on matters of career, health, relationships, and more.